This past weekend marked the anniversary of a tragic moment in our nation’s history. April 4, 1968 is a date etched in the minds of millions of Americans. However, the death of the man did not, and can never, kill the vision that Martin Luther King Jr. challenged us to dream. But, times like this are not limited to the past. They are also about looking towards the future.

Some people are bigger than this life. And it is with this understanding that we memorialize their message and memory for generations not yet born. It is the least this country can do to acknowledge that some things. . . some people must never be forgotten.

Our national monuments stand as giants frozen in time. They are our inspiration. Their passion and vision are legacies of the human spirit.

And now, Washington D.C. prepares to make room for another American giant. A man who, in the opinion of many (myself included), is one of, if not the singular, greatest American history has ever produced.

Washington D.C. draws closer to welcoming a new giant of history. . . the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial.

The project broke ground several years ago. And today, fundraising for the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial has topped $100 million. It stands $14 million shy of its goal of an estimated $120 million memorial.

Dr. King championed a movement that draws fully from the deep well of America’s potential for freedom, opportunity, and justice. His vision of America is captured in his message of hope and possibility for a future anchored in dignity, sensitivity, and mutual respect; a message that challenges each of us to recognize that America’s true strength lies in its diversity of talents. The vision of a memorial in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. is one that captures the essence of his message, a message in which he so eloquently affirms the commanding tenants of the American Dream — Freedom, Democracy and Opportunity for All; a noble quest that gained him the Nobel Peace Prize and one that continues to influence people and societies throughout the world.

Here’s a virtual flyover of the anticipated memorial site:

You can get more information about the project — donations, corporate contributors, and further news — by visiting mlkmemorial.org.

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